(from BMW Press
Release) After launching the Isetta in 1954 in an attempt
to set off the slump in the motorcycle market, BMW soon realised
that this bubble car was too small for the new customers entering
the market, who, as a result of the German “economic miracle” soon
expected a lot more of their new car in the late ’50s. Quite simply,
therefore, such spartan “super-minis” had already passed their
climax, with customers demanding a longer wheelbase and more
comfort.

At the same time the automotive industry was booming, with
production in West Germany increasing by one-third in 1955 alone.
Introducing new models, BMW sought to jump up on the bandwagon, the
BMW 600, a somewhat longer Isetta with its flat-twin engine fitted
at the rear, intended to meet demand for a genuine four-seater at
least for a while as of 1957.